Originally published in 1893, Los exploradores españoles del siglo XVI (The Spanish Explorers of the 16th Century) is Charles Fletcher Lummis's fiery defense of the conquistadors. Forget a dry, neutral history; this is a lawyer's closing argument for the defense.

The Story

Lummis walks us through the major expeditions—Coronado's search for the Seven Cities of Gold, De Soto's brutal trek across the Southeast, Orellana's accidental journey down the Amazon. He gives us the facts of their journeys, the staggering distances covered, and the constant threats of starvation, disease, and hostile encounters. But the real 'plot' is Lummis's relentless campaign to rehabilitate their reputations. He contrasts their documented endurance and martial skill with what he calls the biased and lazy criticisms from Anglo-American historians of his time.

Why You Should Read It

You should read this not for a balanced modern account (it's definitely not that), but for its sheer passion and as a fascinating historical document itself. Lummis's writing is energetic and full of awe for the explorers' physical and mental toughness. He makes you feel the scale of their achievements in a way a textbook never could. Even when you disagree with his glossing over of the atrocities committed, his argument forces you to re-examine the simplistic 'good vs. evil' narrative we often inherit.

Final Verdict

This book is perfect for history readers who enjoy a strong, opinionated perspective and want to understand how past generations viewed these events. It's a gripping, one-sided, and often problematic tribute, but it brings the drama and sheer audacity of the Age of Exploration to life in a way that's impossible to ignore. Read it, argue with it, and let it complicate your understanding of a foundational chapter in world history.